Answering the Call of the Sea

Women were out in force Saturday learning the basics of sailing--rules of the road, basic charting and coastal navigation--in classes sponsored by the Redondo Beach Yacht Club.

Their instruction began ashore, and then they boarded sailboats for training and practice afloat.

Loubelle Lewis was a picture of confidence whether at the helm, at left, or as a deck hand, in bottom photo, with Jan Mason, left front, Diane Roach and Lynne George, steering.

Roach said sailing is attracting increasing numbers of women. “It’s a relaxing break from the weekly grind and a chance to learn some new skills,” she said. “Sailors are also fun-loving people, so you get to make some great new friends.”

Instruction will continue until mid-September and resume next March. All-women crews are competing in a series of races through the summer.